Description The Mosel’s stony soil and numerous rocky outcroppings warm the vineyards by reflecting sunlight and holding the heat of the day. This creates very warm microclimates in the best sites and helps to ensure excellent ripeness. The thin topsoil forces the vines to dig deep through the cliff for water and nutrients, producing vibrant wines that capture the forceful minerality of the soil. Situated amongst some of the world’s most treasured vineyards, the Dr. Loosen estate has been in the same family for more than 200 years. When Ernst Loosen assumed ownership in 1988, he realized that, with ungrafted vines averaging 60 years old in some of Germany’s top-rated vineyards, he had the raw materials to create stunningly intense, world-class Rieslings. To achieve this, Ernst immediately changed the estate’s vineyard practices to dramatically reduce crop size. He stopped all chemical fertilization, preferring only moderate use of organic fertilizers and soil amendments. He extended his commitment to sustainable practices beyond the vineyards and into the winery, implementing improvements in materials recycling, energy efficiency and water conservation. At harvest, he insisted on fully mature fruit that had been very strictly selected. And he turned to gentler cellar practices that would allow the wine to develop its full potential with a minimum of technological meddling. Today, Dr. Loosen wines are widely enjoyed around the globe and continue to receive awards and accolades from top reviewers.
